Encounter Weekend 2026: Making Space to Hear God’s Voice
Life has a way of keeping us busy.
Between work, family, responsibilities, and the constant noise of everyday life, it can be difficult to slow down long enough to listen for what God is saying.
That’s one of the reasons we’re excited to host Encounter Weekend once again at Open Arms Community Church.
On September 11–12, we’ll welcome people from across our region for a weekend of worship, prayer, biblical teaching, and conversation centered on one simple question:
Where is God leading you next?
Encounter Weekend is hosted in partnership with the Church Development Network, a ministry dedicated to helping followers of Jesus make disciples and plant healthy, multiplying churches around the world. Throughout the weekend, you’ll hear biblical teaching, learn practical principles for living on mission, and connect with others who share a desire to follow Jesus wherever He leads.
For some, that next step may involve serving more intentionally in their local church. Others may discover a passion for making disciples in their neighborhood, workplace, or school. Some may sense God calling them to help start a microchurch or plant a new church. Every person’s journey is different, but every follower of Jesus is called to participate in His mission.
One of the things we appreciate most about Encounter Weekend is that there’s no pressure to have everything figured out before you come.
You don’t need ministry experience. You don’t need all the answers. You simply need a heart that’s willing to listen and a desire to follow Jesus faithfully.
Over the course of the weekend, you’ll experience times of worship and prayer, practical teaching from experienced leaders, and opportunities to reflect on how God has uniquely gifted and called you. You’ll also hear stories of lives that have been transformed as ordinary people stepped out in faith and followed God’s leading.
Whether you’re exploring God’s calling for the first time or you’ve been serving Him for years, Encounter Weekend offers an opportunity to step away from the pace of everyday life and spend focused time seeking Him.
Many of our Microchurches were born out of Encounter. It’s an opportunity to learn about church planting, and also to hear God’s call for your life.
Event Details
Encounter Weekend
Friday, September 11 – Saturday, September 12
Open Arms Community Church
71 Congress Street
Bradford, PA
The weekend is free to attend, but registration is requested so the team can prepare for everyone who plans to participate.
If you’re longing to grow in your faith, discover new ways to make disciples, or simply spend intentional time listening for God’s direction, we’d love to have you join us.
We believe God still calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things, and sometimes the first step is simply making the time to listen.
Register today and reserve your spot for Encounter Weekend.
